A few suggestions if you don't mind, that you might like to here about the way the competition would benefit all players.
Point 1
When a player has qualified for a place in the tournament, they should not be able to play in further qualifiers, as is the practise with current tournaments such as MQF Super Qualifiers etc.
Should this be allowed to take place simply for the purpose of being able to sell extra seats, feel that the competition would not be a true State of Origin.
Players who wish to obtain extra seats can participate in other events if they wish, but not in this event.
This is another discussion further down the line I would like to have after I have given it more thought.
Point 2
Due to the fact that you will no longer be holding regional qualifiers in the future.
Would you be interested in looking at introducing a City versus Country event, into the mix, either prior to the State of Origin or after ( my preference would be prior as this would allow country players who travel some distance to play, and extra incentive to participate for a place in the team ) and would benefit the competitions enhancement in gathering the best of the state to play.
This would allow City players the opportunity to also travel and meet there Country cousins, resulting in a combined event over a period of 5 tournaments events. I know this would add extra work for 888PL staff to organise, but I truly believe the players would respond in droves, for the chance to take on the city slickers and city players would love to brag about (trying ) to beat there country bumpkins, thus creating a feisty competition for all players to participate and enjoy.
Therefore regaining the losses that would have bean obtained had the event remained instead of being forfeited by 888PL, as a result of the close of Regional Qualifier Championship events
Obtaining locations in the country area could be found, to hold these events, however, I am certain that the country players would assist in this venture.
Looking forward to your reply
Pistol